Sea ice in the climate system monitored with satellite born SAR

The RADARSAT extended image coverage and northward coverage compared to ERS highlights the present use of satellite born systems for large-scale sea ice variation studies in the Arctic. Wind driven motion in the central Arctic, which alternates between anticyclonic and cyclonic circulation, can to some extent explain yearly and seasonable general variances. An ice motion algorithm for SAR images indicates a relatively weak cyclonic circulation regime during the period of Arctic Ocean Expedition 96. A satellite synergy between the two satellites for discriminating sea ice and ocean water shows lower ice concentration in the central Arctic Ocean compared to the surrounding area. This is in accordance with model predictions, in-situ and meteorological data from the Arctic Ocean Expedition 96.